The ‘Deux Gares’ neighbourhood: an economic hub waiting to be discovered

Just a stone’s throw from Gare du Midi, the ‘Deux Gares’ neighbourhood is home to several hundred businesses and offers strategic advantages for Brussels’ economic development. However, its potential is still under-exploited, as revealed by the economic assessment carried out in 2024 by the consortium comprising BUUR (SWECO), IDEA Consult and Osmos, as part of Urban Renovation Contract 7 ‘Around the Gare du Midi’. This analysis sets out recommendations for action aimed at better integrating economic considerations into urban renovation projects.

An under-the-radar business district, despite its major strengths

The Deux Gares neighbourhood is home to more than 280 businesses, as well as several recognised business centres in the creative, audiovisual, events and service sectors. Located close to the Gare du Midi and the Ring, it is very easily accessible, making it a unique economic hub at regional level.

However, these activities remain relatively low-profile. Despite the presence of a dense and diverse business landscape, the neighbourhood is still struggling to develop a strong economic identity and to make the most of its many strengths.

But today, it is entering a new phase of development. The investments planned under Urban Renovation Contract 7 will help to transform the area and enhance its appeal. These developments present an opportunity to strengthen the links between existing businesses, local shops, residents and public sector organisations, with a view to building an economic dynamic that is more visible and better aligned with the needs of the local area.

Three key areas to focus on to boost the neighbourhood’s appeal

One of the key contributions of the analysis is to demonstrate the value of an approach based on ‘economic hubs’. Looking beyond administrative or urban planning boundaries, this approach helps to identify the true economic dynamics of a region and to develop more targeted public policy measures.

The mini-programme sets out several practical courses of action: strengthening support for businesses, developing a shared economic identity and improving the neighbourhood’s visibility in the public sphere. The aim is to create an economic hub that is more cohesive, more attractive and better connected to its urban environment. Want to find out more? Read the full report to explore the detailed analysis of the Deux Gares neighbourhood and the proposals put forward to support its economic development.

Full report available in French.